Refractive Errors
For the eyes to function properly, light has to be refracted, or bent, by the cornea and the lens. A refractive error is considered to be a defect in the shape of the eye that causes improper bending of the light. This error can result in blurred or fuzzy vision.
Refractive errors are very common vision problems, and include conditions such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism (blurred vision at all distances) and prebyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects). They can develop at any age and may change over time.
While glasses or contact lenses can correct refractive errors, some people may benefit from laser eye surgery or other advanced treatments. The highly trained ophthalmologist at Houston Methodist specialize in refractive errors and can determine the best treatment option for you based on your needs and lifestyle, as well as the type of error you are experiencing.
Treating Refractive Optic Errors
Refractive errors are commonly treated with glasses or contact lenses. Surgeries have also become increasingly popular with a procedure called LASIK. Most surgical techniques will either change the curvature of the cornea or use an artificial lens to correct vision.